The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 continues to deliver unforgettable moments, and one of the most jaw-dropping came during the clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

Nandre Burger stuns Sanju Samson with a dream delivery

In a moment that silenced the crowd, RR pacer Nandre Burger produced a stunning delivery to dismiss Sanju Samson for just six runs on his debut outing for CSK. What was expected to be a big occasion for Samson quickly turned into a nightmare, as Burger’s brilliance stole the spotlight.

Opening the batting in new colours, Samson looked cautious early on, perhaps still settling into the role. But in the second over, Burger charged in and delivered a ball that every fast bowler dreams of.

Clocked at 140.2 kmph, the delivery pitched on a good length and subtly moved away after pitching. Samson, looking to flick it toward the leg side, misread the line completely. The ball zipped past his bat and crashed into the off stump, sending the bails flying.

There was no reaction from Samson for a moment – just disbelief. His feet stayed planted, his bat nowhere near the ball. It was the kind of delivery that leaves even the best batters helpless, and Burger knew it immediately, celebrating what could already be one of the balls of the tournament.

CSK collapse after Samson’s early departure

Samson’s early departure wasn’t just another wicket – it marked the end of an incredible streak. Since 2020, the wicketkeeper-batter had scored a fifty or more in every IPL season opener, consistently setting the tone for his team year after year.

From a blazing 74 in 2020 to a century in 2021 and multiple fifties in the seasons that followed, Samson had built a reputation for starting strong. But IPL 2026 told a different story. His score of 6 (7) not only ended the streak but also highlighted how quickly fortunes can change in T20 cricket.

The context made the moment even more dramatic. Samson was facing his former franchise, RR, a team he had represented for over a decade and led as captain. Having moved to CSK in a high-profile trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, there was immense anticipation around his debut.

Instead, it was Burger who owned the narrative.

Also READ: RR vs CSK – Here’s why Dewald Brevis is not playing today’s match in IPL 2026

Samson’s wicket triggered a collapse at the top. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad fell soon after, dismissed cheaply by Jofra Archer.

Here’s the video:

The pressure intensified when youngster Ayush Mhatre was dismissed for a golden duck – again by Burger.

Within the first three overs, CSK found themselves reeling at 19 for 3, completely on the back foot. Moving ahead, RR bowlers offered no relief as the Super Kings were bundled out for just 127 in 19.4 overs.

Also WATCH: Rinku Singh grabs attention with hilarious bat theft antics after MI vs KKR IPL 2026 clash

Air Canada on Monday said CEO Michael Rousseau will retire by the end of the third quarter, with the announcement coming against the backdrop of criticism over his handling of communications after a fatal accident, Reuters reported.The controversy stemmed from a condolence message issued following a collision involving an Air Canada Express aircraft and a fire truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, which killed both pilots and left dozens injured. The message, delivered largely in English, drew sharp reactions in bilingual Canada.Prime Minister Mark Carney said last week the episode reflected poor judgment by the airline’s top executive.The development has fast-tracked an already planned leadership transition, with the carrier confirming that the process to identify a successor is underway.Rousseau, 68, has been with Air Canada for nearly two decades and oversaw its recovery from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, his tenure also saw criticism over operational issues, including a four-day strike by flight attendants last year that disrupted hundreds of flights.The latest backlash also revived earlier concerns around language use. In 2021, Rousseau had apologised after delivering a speech primarily in English in Montreal, despite the city being in French-speaking Quebec.Language remains a politically sensitive issue in Quebec, where concerns over English dominance have historically influenced regional politics, including support for the separatist Parti Quebecois.Air Canada, though a listed company, operates under the Official Languages Act, which mandates that it provide services in both English and French.The Quebec provincial legislature last week passed a non-binding motion urging Rousseau to step down, citing what lawmakers described as a lack of respect for the French language. Elections in the province are due later this year.The episode also comes at a time when airline chiefs globally are expected to directly address the public following fatal incidents. In January 2025, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom issued a video statement expressing “deep sorrow” after a midair collision involving one of its regional jets and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport killed 67 people.

Chennai Super Kings handed debuts to four players in their first IPL 2026 match against Rajasthan Royals on Monday, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad confirming at the toss that Sanju Samson, Kartik Sharma, Matt Henry and Matt Short would feature in the playing XI.However, Samson and Short could not make an impact in their first outing for CSK. Samson was bowled by Nandre Burger while attempting a leg-side flick. The delivery, clocked at 140.2 kmph, moved away and hit the off stump as he departed for 6 off 7 balls.Short also fell early, with Sandeep Sharma having him caught at midwicket by Yashasvi Jaiswal.With wickets falling at the top, Kartik Sharma came in to bat at number six in the sixth over. Kartik Sharma too failed on his IPL debut as he was out Lbw by another IPL debutant, Brijesh Sharma. Kartik was dismissed for 18 runs off 15 balls.

Who is Kartik Sharma?

Kartik’s journey into the IPL has roots in his early years in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. His father, Manoj Kumar, had wanted to become a cricketer himself and pushed his son towards the sport. “He was five, holding a plastic bat in his hands, and his words were: ‘Sir, chakke maarne waala cricketer banna hai’ (I want to be known as a six-hitter),” Lokendra Singh Chahar, who has trained his son Deepak Chahar and nephew Rahul Chahar, had earlier told TimesofIndia.com.A wicketkeeper-batter known for hitting sixes, Kartik became the joint-most expensive uncapped Indian player at an IPL auction when CSK signed him for Rs 14.2 crore.He was the joint-highest six-hitter in the first phase of the 2025-26 Ranji season and the top six-hitter in the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy. He also finished the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season as the joint third-highest six-hitter. After being part of CSK’s wider squad in IPL 2025, he earned a place in the main squad for IPL 2026.In the match, Rajasthan Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first. Captain Riyan Parag said the decision was due to wet conditions after recent rain.At the time of writing, CSK were 74 for 7 in 11 overs.

The Indian rupee has been battered since the start of the US-Iran war, and continues to depreciate versus the US dollar driven by a multitude of factors. (AI image)

The Indian rupee on Monday breached the 95 mark for the first time versus the US dollar. In fact, in this financial year, the rupee has depreciated by a record 9.88 per cent, the steepest fall seen in 14 years. The currency closed at 94.78 against the dollar. Incidentally, today’s intraday low of 95 came after a smart recovery in morning trade, when the rupee appreciated 128 paise versus the dollar. The recovery came despite global crude oil prices rising. Usually, higher global crude oil prices increase import bill, which in turn raises demand for US dollars, hence putting downward pressure on the rupee. At the same time, higher oil prices fuel inflation, which in turn widens the current account deficit, further weakening the currency.The Indian rupee has been battered since the start of the US-Iran war, and continues to depreciate versus the US dollar driven by a multitude of factors. Market participants noted that the domestic currency opened on a stronger footing as banks, which typically hold long positions, are now expected to pare these exposures in line with the central bank’s directive.

RBI Moves To Protect Rupee

The Reserve Bank of India moved to limit the overnight net open position that banks can maintain to $100 million.Under a circular issued on March 27, 2026, the Reserve Bank capped the Net Open Position (NOP-INR) for banks at $100 million, with compliance mandated by April 10.“As banks begin adjusting their positions, they are likely to sell dollars in the market, which can temporarily support the rupee. This creates a phase of relief, driven by position unwinding, not by a major shift in fundamentals, but still meaningful in the near term,” CR Forex Advisors MD Amit Pabari said.The Reserve Bank of India’s decision to stabilise the rupee by directing banks to reduce their foreign exchange exposures beyond $100 million was expected to check the currency’s slide towards the 95 level.

The measure is also likely to result in losses for banks holding large open positions. Over the weekend, lenders approached the central bank seeking either relaxation of the rule or an extension of the timeline. However, with the RBI maintaining its stance, banks are now required to begin trimming their positions from Monday in order to comply with the April 10 deadline.Previously, banks were allowed to maintain net open positions of up to 25% of their net worth. In reality, several large institutions had built substantial long dollar exposures, in some cases exceeding $1 billion, anticipating further depreciation of the rupee. The revised cap now necessitates a swift reduction in these positions. By April 10, 2026, banks must scale down their exposures to $100 million, effectively forcing them to offload dollars and purchase rupees to rebalance their books.Uday Kotak described the step as “an unconventional policy action” prompted by a West Asia crisis that has moved into “uncharted territory”. “Reminds me of Bimal Jalan play book as RBI Governor in 1998 when the rupee was depreciating sharply post Asian crisis. If things get worse geo politically, is there an opportunity for a new version of FCNR (B) scheme?” he said.Some bankers, however, remain doubtful about the effectiveness of special measures aimed at attracting dollar inflows.

Why rupee declined despite RBI move

The central bank’s action initially triggered a sharp appreciation in the rupee during early trade on Monday. However, much of these gains were later erased as strong demand for the US dollar from oil companies weighed on the currency, according to market participants.Forex traders noted significant volatility in the USD/INR pair, which fluctuated within a wide range of 165 paise during intra-day trading, as the West Asia conflict entered its 31st day and continued to unsettle energy markets.“Rupee rose, but again fell due to some big corporate buying, squaring up of position in NDF, Nationalised banks buying and oil companies buying,” said Anil Kumar Bhansali, head of treasury and executive director at Finrex Treasury Advisors LLP.Analysts indicated that the rupee is likely to move within a broad range of 92 to 97 against the US dollar in the near term.“Outlook depends on three variables: oil, flows, and global rates. The new normal is higher volatility plus gradual depreciation, not stability around a fixed band. In FY27, for the USD/INR pair, 92-97 remains the broader range play,” said Sunal Sodhani, head of treasury in India at South Korean lender Shinhan Bank.According to forex market participants, the domestic unit remains under pressure due to persistent outflows by foreign investors and the strengthening of the US dollar, driven by ongoing uncertainty linked to the West Asia conflict. Traders noted that sustained demand for the dollar, coupled with inflation risks stemming from elevated energy prices, continues to weigh heavily on the rupee. They added that the overall trend is likely to stay weak unless there is a meaningful correction in crude oil prices.Earlier initiatives to mobilise foreign currency relied on offering assured returns to non-resident Indians, who would borrow at lower rates overseas and invest in India. Such approaches may have limited appeal now, given the broader availability of structured investment options. Bankers noted that raising dollars through rupee-dollar swap mechanisms may prove more cost-effective for the RBI.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been dealt an early setback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, with young star Dewald Brevis missing their clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR).

RR vs CSK: Why Dewald Brevis is not playing today’s match?

The South African batter was ruled out after suffering a side strain during a training session in the lead-up to the match in Guwahati. It’s an unfortunate blow for both Brevis and CSK, especially considering the excitement around his inclusion in the squad this season.
According to reports from the team camp, the injury occurred during routine practice, raising immediate concerns among the support staff. Head coach Stephen Fleming later confirmed that Brevis would not be available for selection and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

While the franchise has not provided an exact recovery timeline, there is optimism that the injury is not too serious. However, side strains can be tricky, often requiring careful management to avoid aggravation. For now, CSK are taking a cautious approach, prioritizing Brevis’ long-term fitness over a rushed return.

The youngster’s absence is particularly disappointing given his aggressive batting style and ability to shift momentum in the middle overs – qualities CSK were hoping to utilize early in the tournament.

Injury woes mount for CSK

Brevis’ injury adds to a growing list of concerns for CSK, who are already dealing with multiple fitness issues at the start of their campaign.

New Zealand pacer Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the entire tournament, leaving a gap in the pace department. Meanwhile, veteran skipper MS Dhoni is also unavailable for the first couple of weeks due to a calf strain, further complicating team combinations.

With key players missing, CSK now face the challenge of reshuffling their lineup and finding the right balance. The absence of Brevis not only reduces their batting depth but also limits their flexibility in the middle order.

Despite these setbacks, CSK have a reputation for adapting under pressure. The team management will be hoping that their experienced core can step up while younger players seize the opportunity to make an impact.

Also READ: RR vs CSK, IPL 2026 – Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings?

RR vs CSK: Playing of both teams

Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Matthew Short, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Matt Henry, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma

Impact substitutes for both teams

Chennai Super Kings Impact subs: Sarfaraz Khan, Prashant Veer, Rahul Chahar, Gurjapneet Singh, Ramakrishna Ghosh

Rajasthan Royals Impact subs: Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Sushant Mishra, Tushar Deshpande

Also READ: RR vs CSK, IPL 2026 – Barsapara Stadium Pitch Report and Guwahati Weather Forecast

Brijesh Sharma made his IPL debut on Monday after being named in the playing XI of the Rajasthan Royals for their match against the Chennai Super Kings.Rajasthan Royals had picked the Jammu and Kashmir pacer at his base price of Rs 30 lakh in the IPL 2026 auction. At that time, he had not played senior cricket in any format, but his performances in the 2025 Bengal Pro T20 League had brought him into focus.A right-arm medium pace bowler, Sharma finished joint-fifth on the wickets list in that tournament, taking 11 wickets in seven matches while playing for Smashers Malda.

From J&K to RR via Bengal

His journey to professional cricket has come through several challenges. He grew up in the Dandial area as the son of a labourer and faced financial issues while pursuing the sport. He started by representing Jammu and Kashmir at the Under-19 and Under-25 levels.To improve his game, he later moved to Delhi, where he trained under Deepak Punia at the Unique Sports Club. The shift helped him develop better control and prepare for higher levels of competition.His performance in the Bengal Pro T20 League in 2025 played a key role in his rise. Playing at Eden Gardens, he was among the leading wicket-takers and showed his ability in both the Powerplay and the final overs, finishing with 11 wickets in seven matches.That run led to his selection by Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026. The impact of Brijesh Sharma extends beyond his statistics; he has become a symbol of hope for aspiring cricketers from Jammu and Kashmir, following in the footsteps of regional icons like Umran Malik and Auqib Nabi these days.In the match, Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bowl against Chennai Super Kings in their Indian Premier League opener here on Monday.Royals have beaten CSK four times in their last five matches. Both teams struggled in the 2025 season.CSK are without charismatic MS Dhoni, who has been sidelined for at least two weeks due to a calf injury.Follow live updatesTeams:Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Ayush Mhatre, Matt Short, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Matt Henry, Anshul Kamboj, and Khaleel Ahmed.Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (C), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma.